Lifestyle

Your Backyard Is Another Room

Do not start with a deck. Start with how you want to live outside β€” then make the space serve that life.

Show Us Your Favourite Place Outside β†’Back to Stories & Ideas β†’
πŸ“Š Shackadoo Fact Check

Current Canadian HomeStars guidance puts installed deck construction broadly around $35–$130 per sq. ft. depending on material, complexity and location. Treat this as an industry planning range, not a quote.

Checked: September 2026 β€’ Source: HomeStars deck cost guide

Start with the life, not the material.

Do you want coffee in the morning? Dinner outside? A place to read? More privacy? Shade? Gardening? Kids’ space? Entertaining? A bug-free evening? Answer that before deciding β€œdeck or patio.”

The outdoor room can be tiny.

β˜• Coffee spotTwo chairs, a small table, shade and a view you like.
πŸ” Cooking zoneGrill, prep surface, lighting and somewhere to set food down.
🌿 Quiet cornerComfortable seating, greenery, privacy and soft light.

πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ The Canada Check

Looks great in July. How does it work in January?

Think about snow storage, drainage, freeze-thaw, footings, wind, mosquitoes, fall cleanup, winter access and where wet boots enter the house.

Hardscape gives function. Plants make it feel alive.

A successful outdoor space is not only concrete, boards or pavers. Trees, beds, containers and greenery soften the space and often improve privacy and comfort.

What is your favourite place outside?

Deck, balcony, porch, garden, fire pit or two chairs under a tree β€” show Canada where you like to be.

Share Your Outdoor Space β†’